Jessica Hernandez, a teacher on special assignment in the Migrant Education program at Santa Rosa City Schools (SRCS), has been named the Sonoma County Teacher of the Month for March 2025.
Hernandez, who has worked in the district for 10 years, was notified of the recognition on Monday, March 24, while she taught an after-school writing class at Luther Burbank Elementary School in Santa Rosa.
The Sonoma County Teacher of the Month program highlights extraordinary educators in the region’s public schools. It is organized and promoted by the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE) in partnership with local radio stations that solicit nominations for the program via on-air ads.
Several district employees participated in Monday’s surprise announcement, including Dr. Patricia Law, a colleague of Hernandez who nominated her for the award, and SRCS Superintendent Dr. Daisy Morales. Luther Burbank Principal Mitchell Tucker and Hernandez’s husband and two daughters were also present.
“Jessica’s unwavering dedication, creativity, and passion for education inspire not only her students but also our entire community,” Morales said. “Congratulations, Jessica — you are truly making a difference!”
Hernandez has been a part of the district’s Migrant Education Program for the past three years. The program, which is federally funded, ensures students whose families migrate to perform seasonal work in trades such as agriculture, livestock, or forestry receive the same high-quality education as other students.
In her nomination, Law described Hernandez as an educator who not only considers the needs of her students, but also the needs of their families, helping them access community services and other types of support.
Hernandez has also worked with several local organizations to bring fun learning opportunities directly to her students, such as rocket launcher kits acquired through the Children’s Museum of Sonoma County and the Sonoma County Library’s mobile library.
“She wants all students to have as many opportunities as possible,” Law said in her nomination of Hernandez. “Where there’s a barrier or a potential obstacle, she sees an opportunity for change.”
Additionally, Hernandez leads trainings with local teachers, conducts visits to local schools that support migrant students, and both oversees and runs several intervention programs designed to provide extra help to students facing learning gaps.
She began her teaching career at Santa Rosa’s Brook Hill Elementary before transferring to the Cesar Chavez Language Academy.
“Thank you so much for nominating me,” Hernandez said after the announcement. “This is a work of art and heart for all of us. It takes a village.”
Sonoma County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Amie Carter congratulated Hernandez for being named the March 2025 Teacher of the Month, and commended her persistent commitment to students.
“By leveraging local organizations and resources, Jessica ensures her students receive not only academic support but also the tools they and their families need to thrive,” Carter said.
As the winner of the Teacher of the Month contest, Hernandez received a $500 classroom gift card sponsored by Community First Credit Union, a six-month family membership from the Sonoma County Family YMCA in Santa Rosa, and $100 gift cards from Henry Mechanical and Bernstein Orthodontics.
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for their students? Nominations for this program can be submitted at Hot 101.7
